Celebrated folk singer and Padma Bhushan awardee, Sharda Sinha, passed away today at age 72. She was receiving treatment at AIIMS Delhi after being admitted on October 25 due to complications from cancer. Diagnosed in 2017 with multiple myeloma, a bone marrow cancer, Sinha had been placed on a ventilator. She succumbed to septicemia, with refractory shock as the final cause of her passing.
Her son shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing, “Your prayers and love will always be with mother. She has been called by Chhathi Maiya to her side.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, saying, “The echo of her melodious songs associated with Chhath will always remain.” He extended his heartfelt condolences to her family.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed sorrow, calling Sinha a “multi-talented folk singer” who popularized Bhojpuri music. “People will remember her songs for a long time. With her passing, folk music has lost a powerful voice. Om Shanti,” he added.
Home Minister Amit Shah shared similar sentiments, saying, “Sharda Sinha ji lifted Indian music to new heights with her melodious voice over five decades. Known as the Bihar Kokila, she brought Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs into the limelight.”
AIIMS Delhi revealed that Prime Minister Modi was monitoring her health closely, while Union Health Minister JP Nadda had visited the hospital last night. Nadda ensured she received the best care possible and spoke with her son, Anshuman, to offer support.
Sharda Sinha’s contributions to folk music are monumental. Known for her popular Chhath songs, she sang in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi. Her songs have become timeless, especially her festival performances, where her voice would captivate audiences.
Beyond folk music, Sinha left her mark in Bollywood with songs in Maine Pyar Kiya and Hum Aapke Hain Kaun. Her track “Taar Bijli” in Gangs of Wasseypur gained immense popularity as well.
Awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, she also received the Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi award. Recently, Sinha endured another loss with the passing of her husband, Braj Kishore Sinha, due to a brain hemorrhage after a fall. They had recently celebrated their 54th anniversary, cherishing their life together.
Sharda Sinha’s legacy in folk music will continue to inspire generations. Her voice, deeply rooted in the culture of Bihar, will always resonate with those who cherished her songs.
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